A lesson on

A selected paint color of choice and finish is mixed with solvents to allow it to accept an electrical charge when administered through an air-pressurized electrostatic spray gun. A ground wire is then attached to the metal object or surface being painted to provide a negative charge. When the trigger is pressed, the paint mixes with a compressed air stream and is released in a fine spray. A rotational bell located at the end of the gun’s nozzle ejects the paint into the air through a spinning metal disc. This spinning metal disc (or bell) imparts an electrical charge to the coating particles. When applied, the atomized particles of the paint are made to be electrically charged, thereby repelling each other and spreading themselves evenly as they exit the spray nozzle. Like a magnet, the static electricity draws the paint onto the grounded metal surface in a flawless coat.

The cleaning and extensive preparation of any metal surface is also of equal importance to the electrostatic painting process. This includes the removal of any foreign elements such as tape and glue. The sanding, sandblasting, grinding and stripping of any unwanted surface materials is also done to assure proper adhesion and smooth surfacing. Masking is done to protect parts of the object that are not to be painted and the metal is primed. Finally, surfaces are wiped down with solvents to remove any oxidation.